It’s hard to think of much else besides Oklahoma this morning. The storms were south of us and our ranch, family, and friends are just fine…but so many in our beautiful state are not.

Oklahoma is strong and will recover, but I wanted to ask for your prayers today.

- For those who are suffering in Oklahoma today. Many have lost their homes.
- For those who are grief-stricken. People have lost loved ones.
- For the rescue and aid workers who are trying to assist as many people as possible.
- For those who feel hopeless or helpless. They need hope. And help.

The need is so great right now. Thank you for your prayers.

If you are able, here are some other ways to help. Most of these are the “standard” avenues of assistance, but are very effective. I’m continually looking for the best ways to get help to the affected areas and will keep you posted as I hear.

Salvation ArmySupporters are encouraged to give online at www.SalvationArmyUSA.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769). You can also text the word “STORM” to 80888 to make a $10 donation through your mobile phone; to confirm your gift, respond with the word “Yes.”

Samaritan’s PurseSamaritan’s Purse has deployed a team to Moore, Oklahoma and will respond to the current needs in any way they can.

Regional Food Bank of OklahomaThe Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, in partnership with Oklahoma Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, is asking that the public support all rescue, recovery and disaster relief efforts with donations of cash to your favorite responding charity. Financial donations will allow disaster relief agencies to purchase whatever items are deemed necessary without resulting in the additional burden of securing warehouse space and volunteers to work donated product.
To make a tax deductible donation to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, go to www.regionalfoodbank.org or call 604-7111 or text FOOD to 32333 to give $10 to relief efforts.

Feeding AmericaFeeding America will deliver truckloads of food, water and supplies to impacted areas through its network of more than 200 food banks and 61,000 agencies. The organization’s food banks will also set up additional dropoff sites.

Convoy of HopeInternational humanitarian relief organization Convoy of Hope is responding to the Moore, Okla. area this morning. Immediately after the devastating tornadoes struck, a Convoy of Hope assessment team was in the area and tractor-trailers were loaded with emergency supplies at Convoy of Hope’s World Distribution Center in Springfield, Missouri.
Those wishing to make a contribution to the OKC and Midwest tornado relief efforts can make a secure online contribution by visiting: http://www.convoyofhope.org. To place a $10 donation on your cellular bill, text the word CONVOY to 50555. Standard text and data rates apply.

American Red CrossPeople who wish to make a donation can support American Red Cross Disaster Relief, which helps provide food, shelter and emotional support to those affected by disasters like the recent tornadoes in Oklahoma and Texas as well as disasters big and small throughout the United States by visiting redcross.org, dialing 1-800-REDCROSS or texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Central OK Humane Society (For the pets left homeless and injured.)Currently greatest need is financial donations to help treat and house lost and injured animals. Current in-kind needs are: Towels, paper towels, bleach, gloves, and crates. All donations can be taken to either Central Park Dog Daycare location (2905 NW 70th and 5420 N. Classen Blvd.) Pet food donations may be taken there as well.

Thank you for sending your love and prayers to Oklahoma. This is our home and it’s hard to see the suffering.

734 Comments and 46 Replies

Cindi P. On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:29 am

My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy. Thank you for giving us information on how to help.

102

Kim On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:29 am

Praying from Chattanooga, Tennessee! Hugs!

103

Judie Williams On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:30 am

My heart is hurting for everyone affected by the storms….and most especially for those who just still don’t know the whereabouts of their loved ones. Praying for swift answers and God’s comforting arms to surround everyone….from those little ones who endured the trauma of the storm without mommies and daddies to reassure them to those first responders who are weary beyond words at this point. God’s Peace to you all.

104

Beth B. On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:30 am

“God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” Ephesians 3:20 I am praying as well!

105

Kathy in CO On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:31 am

Jesus wept.

106

Karen - NC On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:31 am

Ree, so glad to hear you were spared of the storm. For those in it’s path, my heart goes out to them. I watched the TV in horror of seeing the storm come. Such devastation and loss of life just made me cry. I can not imagine the heart ache & the loss of everything these people are going thru. They are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you so much for posting where we can help the state of Oklahoma, & God Bless Oklahoma…. Be safe…

107

Kathy in CA On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:32 am

Thanks for letting us know all safe with your family. And for the available resources. I know from experience, the Salvation Army is the first on site, brings amazing help and never looks for attention. They just are there to bring help and comfort. Any dollars donated to the Army, you can be assured they will go to help the most people. Prayers to all the families.

108

Lon Kelly On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:32 am

Thank you for the local organizations to give to in Oklahoma. We wanted to send money and the local organizations seem the best. What I know about this is there by the grace of God go I. It makes me so thankful for what I “have”. Even if it isn’t everything I “want”
. Peace and prayers to all

109

Andrea in Aggieland On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:32 am

Thank you for posting ways we can help. From your neighbor in Texas, my family just donated to the Oklahoma Food Bank. We continue to send our prayers.

110

Dana On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:35 am

Here is another group that does excellent work in communities hit with disasters.

Rebecca McN. On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:35 am

I’m so glad you and your family are safe. Oklahoma, and all the people touched by this will be in my prayers.

112

Lorinda On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:36 am

Prayers, Love and Hugs sent from WA state to Ok.

113

Linders On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:36 am

Praying in earnest from California for Oklahoma. God have mercy. Thanks for the donation info, Ree. That is a small way we can help as we feel so helpless! Can’t even find the words…

114

Susan J. On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:36 am

Oklahoma – we are praying for you and your loved ones.

115

Sue K On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:36 am

Prayers for all effected in Oklahoma!! We’ve been watching the news and it is heartbreaking to see our neighbors down south so devasted. One wonderful thing to see is the great people of OK all working together to help each other. It is good for the heart and soul.
Another good charity I might suggest is Mercury One.org . This is Glenn Becks’ charity and 100% of the donations go to the victims. He is already down there with 2 tractor trailers full of goods to help and is taking $$ donations also. I really like the fact that 100% goes to help!
We will continue to pray for all those in OK. May God watch over them.
Sue K in Nebraska

116

Dona Lou On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:38 am

Thank You for posting the information on where to send donations. I have found the Salvation Army to be the most reliable. My donation to the Oklahoma Salvation Army is on the way.

117

MAM On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:39 am

So glad that all are safe where you are and praying for all those who have lost loved ones and homes. So devastating – such sadness. God Bless and sustain the people of the state of Oklahoma throughout this trying time.

118

Marie W On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:39 am

Thanks Ree for the information. I am also aware, that the needs will change as Oklahoma moves forward after this tragedy. Thank God for all the first responder teams, which are many different organizations, who hit the ground immediately and will be there to do what it takes. Prayers and paying it forward are always rewarded.

119

Dotty P. On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:39 am

I’m praying for all those who are suffering in our great state of Oklahoma!
I am proud to say I was born and raised in Oklahoma and I wouldn’t live anywhere else.
I thank the Lord that my family and friends in Moore Ok. are safe. Please continue to pray for the children and the parents who have lost children in Moore.

120

Julie On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:41 am

I doubt if I’m the only one who looked on the map to see where your ranch is compared to the tornado. Mother Nature can be so cruel, my heart aches for all involved.

121

Patricia On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:41 am

Happy that you and yours are ok.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of the victims & first responders in Oklahoma today.
Your state & this great nation supported Connecticut after the Sandy Hook tragedy; now it’s our turn to show our support.

122

Gogi On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:42 am

Thank you for posting the list of agencies providing aid.
Prayers and thoughts are with all those affected by storms.

123

Angie M. On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:42 am

Thinking about all the families in OK.

124

Lisa from PA On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:42 am

Praying for comfort and strength in OKlahoma, for all those grieving, for those giving aid in any way possible. May God bless all of OK and keep you strong and safe…

125

Kimberly On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:43 am

Oh. After reading the news this morning I am teary and my heart is breaking for the families of those at Plaza Towers. Our Prayers are with Oklahoma.

I appreciate your post. It is with a heavy heart that I watch and pray for those in the midst of this tragedy. Praying that God’s love will surround everyone at this time so that those who have been affected know that they are loved and not alone. Praying for you Moore, OK from Arkansas.

127

TMarie On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:43 am

My thoughts & prayers are going out from New England to all of those who are suffering. We are trying to get through the bombings at the BM and it is like a sucker punch to hear about the devastation in Oklahoma now. Thank you to Ree for posting ways to help from so far away & I did see the listing from Chris. I am glad you are safe Ree, grieving for all of those hurting. Even the animals. Lord hear our prayers..xo

The scenes of the tornado damage are beyond belief, beyond heart-breaking. My thoughts and prayers, as well as a contribution to the Oklahoma Food bank are on the way. Godspeed to all in harm’s way today, too.

129

teresa On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:47 am

Glad all is safe your way, thank you for the information. Can not stop thinking about those poor people, always surprised about how unfair life is.

I have a cousin that moved to Moore from Southern Illinois about a year ago. I called yesterday and found out that they had moved to a sub division just east of
Moore. Not sure where as we could only talk for a couple of minutes. They said
they would call in a couple of days and let me know what had happened. I am anxiously awaiting their call. Will pray for of those affected by this tragedy.

131

PenPen On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:48 am

We’re glad that you and your family are safe. Oklahoma is in our prayers. God Bless you and keep you safe..

132

Jennifer On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:49 am

I’m praying Ree. Peace to all of those affected.

133

Anne TerHaar On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:49 am

I am so happy to hear you are all OK in OK! And I am also heartbroken for those who lost loved ones and their homes. May they find healing and peace. Hugs.

134

ColleenH On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:49 am

Ree I am so thankful that you, your family and your ranch are safe. My heart hurts for those whose lives are devastated by the tornado. My state of Louisiana has been touched by natural disaster more than once but in recent history of course Katrina is the freshest on my mind. Prayers to Oklahoma!

Our hearts and thoughts go out to everyone affected by the devastation in Oklahoma today. We thank you Ree for posting the information on how we can all be helpful.

139

Holly On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:53 am

Praying for strength and healing for Oklahoma. Glad your family is safe.

140

Wolf Warren On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:53 am

My prayers go out to allin Oklahoma but focused on Moore of course. My Dad’s family are all Tulsian or from OKC and Thankfully no bad news yet. Hopes and prayer’s from me are their’s in Oklahoma

141

Heather On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:55 am

Thankful your family are safe. We have been watching the news from here in Canada and grieve with you all. Thanks for the info as to how we can help from here. May God comfort those who have experienced this great loss. You are all in our prayers.

142

Julia G. On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:55 am

Ree – praying for the people of Oklahoma and the rescue efforts. Also, sending thanks for you and your family’s safety.

143

Janet On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:55 am

Ree, thanks so much for the beautiful picture. I am here in the OKC area and it’s nice to be reminded of how lovely it can be here. They say that God doesn’t give you more than you can handle, but why does He think we’re so darn tough?

144

Connie R. On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:56 am

Glad you are ok, Ree, and your family. It’s so hard to hear about such tragedy, and even worse when children are affected. I’m praying that every dollar and donation sent to OK makes it to someone who desperately needs it. May God pour His comfort and mercy over all affected. In the midst of such despair and destruction, He is a steady Rock!

145

gingela5 On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:57 am

Obviously people need help the most but we can’t forget about the displaced animals as well–here’s a link to the OK Humane Society and how to get donations to them too.

Joda On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:57 am

Having been through Katrina and lost A LOT!! Everytime something like this happens I have such a bond in my heart with the victims. I was not this bad off – I had three walls. I can assure you that Red Cross and MANY others were on the scene to help us and today I encourage anyone who is thinking about a small donation to do so. I can tell you first hand they brought us food, ice, and made sure we were okay every day. I know we sometimes might be concerned with where our compassion dollars are going. I have been skeptical in the past but I can tell you – it was a help and these people need a hand (along with a lot of prayer) right now!!!!!!!!!!!

147

Gail Tuttle On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:57 am

Special prayers for those in Oklahoma affected by this natural disaster. I was very worried about you and your family. Living in Ohio we have tornadoes but nothing like what you are faced with there. Could you post a map showing where you are in relationship to the community Moore?

148

Patricia On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:58 am

We have been praying for all of those in Oklahoma impacted by this disastrous storm since we first heard the news yesterday afternoon. And we will continue to storm heaven and ask that God hold all tenderly in the palm of His hand and that He send his angels to strengthen everyone who has been touched by this tragedy. There are many prayers here in IL that are joined with the countless others storming heaven on behalf of Oklahoma.

149

Annie B On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:58 am

Our memories of living in Oklahoma are of the strong, loving, and caring people. Our prayers are there with all of them and our hearts are broken.

Sending prayers from Minnesota, just made a donation to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Every little bit helps…

151

Toby On Tuesday, May 21 at 10:58 am

Convoy of Hope (Springfield Mo.) is another great organization already on the scene.

152

Joy On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:00 am

May God’s comfort be on all who are affected. May His strength and courage to face the weeks and months ahead be poured out without measure.
May God encourage with hope to the utmost those who are able to be there to physically help that they will not despair.
And may God give wisdom to those who are not able to help, the power to pray for those who can.
Our hearts go out to all. It is very hard to feel so helpless at such a time. For some of us, we’d be in the way more than we’d be a help, but we can surely donate money and pray continually.
God’s is faithful. His love has no bounds.

Evelyn On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:00 am

I have family in the NE corner of OKlahoma and thankfully God has protected them.
For those who are able please donate as Ree has suggested. The Salvation Army is at the top of the best. I have seen their work.
Prayers for all.

155

Shari On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:00 am

Prayers heading to Oklahoma…my heart broke into a million little pieces, when I walked by the tv and they were talking about the elementary school..

156

GWen On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:00 am

Ree, please consider recommending assistance through Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief…not because of its denominational identification, but because it is one of the most effective disaster relieft organizations around. With local connections through many churches of many denominations and strong community ties, they offer immediate and practical assistance to displaced families. They provide meals, clothing & shelter, wash clothes, give rides, communicate with relatives, help with fuel, remove debris, cut trees, hand out water, help with baby needs & feminine hygiene, entertain children, and on and on and on. Good people with great hearts and willing hands.

Many prayers for those in Oklahoma! I cannot begin to grasp what these families must be going through at this time. My heart aches for their loss. May God watch over them and give them strength through this terrible tragedy.

I wanted to mention one more – Text 50555 to donate $10 to Convoy of Hope.
$.93 of every $1 donated to Convoy gets to the victims.

They’re out of Southwest Missouri and are all too familiar with our Midwest tornadoes.

159

Jeannie On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:04 am

We here in Canada are thinking about Oklahoma- it was the ofiice water cooler topic this morning. we have been following the news & send outour prayers & donations.

160

Margi in Ky On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:05 am

My heart goes out to all the survivors in OK. I don’t live there but it’s my birth state and I have always had a soft spot for the state. But one organization is applying 100% of all funds collected for OK. They have been on the ground since last night. So if you want a relief fund that use all proceeds to go where it belongs send it to: MERCURYONE.ORG

AMEN, AMEN, to all of the prayers!
When we lived in Australia, I saw the wonderful work done by the Salvation Army. Over there, they are called SALVOS. Happy to hear of the those folks who are safe and sound.
As my grandparents told us, “You are from strong stock, STAY STRONG!”

Last week I was driving home from Texas to Minnesota and went through Oklahoma.
Prayers from Minnesota.

163

Kim H On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:06 am

My prayers are with the state of Oklahoma, I know that the state of Mississippi will be sending people to help. People here are already organizing relief efforts to come help, we have knocked down by storms and we know how to clean up. We have been on the recieving end of many generous helping hands and it is our turn to return the favor. God be with you during the troubling time, I know that it is not an easy road ahead.

164

karen w. On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:07 am

Prayers for strength and help are coming from North Carolina to Oklahoma. I know Samaritan’s Purse if not already there is on the way. The footage the media has aired made my heart sink to my stomach. It did truly look like a war zone. Thank God for those who remained safe and I know God is watching over those who were in the path of destruction. Help is on the way. Love and prayers for all the states involved in these horrific storms.

So glad that your family was not affected by this latest round of storms. I’m praying for the people suffering from Sun/Mon tornadoes. It’s so hard to watch the news… Thank you for sharing the ways we can help.

We, in South Carolina, are lifting you all in prayer. It was a horrific storm that has taken many lives. My family will continue to pray and do what we can to help. God is in total control. He will see these folks through this difficult time. I am thankful that you and yours are safe.

In Him,
Joan

167

wendy On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:11 am

Praying for all of Oklahoma and their loved ones.

168

vlmarston On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:13 am

KVOO said this morning that Moore OK is in desperate need of trash bags and shovels. If there’s a collection site close to you please consider donating clean up items instead of bottled water. Toiletry items are also needed. Bbless my home state!

169

Elizabeth On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:14 am

Prayers for strength and comfort for Oklahoma…

170

Barb B On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:15 am

So glad to hear from you and that you were spared heartache from those horrible storms. Tornadoes are one of my absolute worst fears and always have been. My prayers are with the folks of Oklahoma.

171

Kelley Kay On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:15 am

It’s so sad and scary to see the devastation this storm has caused. I’m very thankful that you, your family, and friends are ok and I will continue to pray who have lost so much – my heart breaks for them. Thanks for keeping us posted Ree.

Kelley Kay On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:17 am

…and I will continue to pray *for those who have lost so much

172

dc On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:16 am

Ree, Glad you are all ok and safe. I am sending prayers for everyone in Moore. I work with a woman who lived through the 2003 tornado, and I helped with clean up in Joplin. The destruction these storms stir up is mind boggling. I live in St. Louis and we are supposed to get the same storm system today. God bless and keep safe.

sandy s On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:25 am

Chris McGetrick On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:26 am

Living in Arkansas – I feel the pain of your State. Thinking of everyone there. I have close friends in other parts of OK – Broken Arrow.

I will donate to the Red Cross. For everyone in Tornado Alley – heed all the warnings and get to a safe place!!!

181

lorilynnb On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:26 am

Thanks for the reminder that Samaritan’s Purse helps at locations as well. You are a blessing to many by “using your powers for good”.

182

Brooke On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:26 am

Praying in Indiana for OK.

183

Carla McGilvery On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:26 am

I made my donations this morning. Thank you for posting this information. Your website reaches very far to a lot of good, caring people. Oklahoma people are good, strong, caring people and I pray for all that have been affected by the recent storms. Stay safe as I hear there are more expected. God Bless!

184

bridget On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:26 am

I’m so sorry to hear about the devastation in Oklahoma. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

185

Amy On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:26 am

UMCORhttp://www.umcor.org
You can specify that your donation go directly to tornado victims on the donate page.

186

Cindy On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:27 am

UMCOR – United Methodist Committee on Relief. 100% of donation to UMCOR goes to victims of catastrophe because UMCOR administrative costs are underwritten by United Methodist Churches all over the world. UMCOR volunteers get there IMMEDIATELY working through the local churches in the affected areas. Best bang for your buck, to put it bluntly. Interesting note – my dad lived to age 93 and grew up in OK around Henryetta. Before he died, he told me he’d never been in a tornado! That’s amazing.

I’m here in OKC myself. My house and neighborhood are okay and my husband and I are both nurse volunteers, so we may be sent out to help. In any case, don’t forget about Heart to Heart International! http://www.hearttoheart.org/ — or you can text the word HEART to 27722 to donate $10.

194

DonnaT On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:28 am

Thank you for giving us all an update, Ree. All who are affected are certainly in my prayers. I really appreciate you pulling together for us the trusted organizations where we can send our donations.
Love from Washington state to all in Oklahoma!!

Lauran V On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:28 am

Camille On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:30 am

Catholic Relief Services is on the ground and helping aid all the victims! Please consider supporting their efforts.

198

Susan G. On Tuesday, May 21 at 11:30 am

My thoughts and prayers are with all of the folks touched by this terrible tradgedy. It is heartbreaking to sit here on the West Coast and not be able to do much else but pray. Everytime something like this occurs I wonder how someone can get up and rebuild thier lifes, sometimes more than once. The strength that you all possess is something to write about, to acknowledge with amazement and prayers to help strengthen the resolve to go on. God Bless you all.

You and your family are the only ones I know in Oklahoma, so I was so happy to read that you are all okay. Thanks for posting that today. I have been praying for all of you since I first heard of the devastation last night. I live in earthquake country and can’t help the feeling – ‘it could so easily have been us there on the news.’ I’ll keep praying and donating.

Ree,
I send positive energy and prayers to all affected by the terrible tornados of the last few days. My heartfelt condolences to the families who have suffered and lost in the haphazard sweeps of Mother Nature’s violent whims.